Thread: Don't really want to talk about it, but...

I need to replace my 18-55mm kit lens for my Canon. There was an unfortunate incident while trying to stop my youngest from eating finger paint, and it won't zoom past 35mm without using force, and when I do get it to 55mm, it won't focus.

So I'm just left with my 55-250mm lens, which isn't exactly good for taking to crowded "vacation" type places with me, and I don't really use my point and shoot anymore because I'm too used to my DSLR

My question is, where would you reasonably go next for a replacement for this? My dream is the 24-70mm 2.8L, but that's just not in our budget. This just really craps on my plan, because I really wanted to go prime for my next purchase, but I feel like I need a smaller zoom now.

I have a nikon full frame, but when I had the crop sensor, I was in LOVE with my 35mm 1.8 prime. It's fairly cheap too. You can definitely get a family in there without backing up too much, and it was my go-to lens whenever I shot indoors. Worth looking into, at least.

I love my 28-75 2.8 Tamron. It isn't crisp like a prime, but works well for me in most tight spots... Also was very affordable!

I was actually looking at that lens, Beth. I've read some great reviews of it. I guess the thing that is steering me away from a prime is that I feel like I'll need a zoom. I've heard that primes will give you a crisper image, but if I can just have one, I'm thinking that I'll "need" a zoom over a prime. I've only ever tried out a prime once for an afternoon, and it wasn't enough for me to gauge whether it could take the place of a zoom for me. Plus, I wasn't really thinking in those terms, as I still had my 18-55mm.

Does anyone have Canon 28-135mm 3.5-4.5?

I dont have the lens you asked about, but have heard one should steer clear of variable aps, and for me I need the 2.8 for low-light situations.

Originally Posted by maricopamom3

I dont have the lens you asked about, but have heard one should steer clear of variable aps, and for me I need the 2.8 for low-light situations.

I'm a Nikon gal, so I can't comment on specific lenses, but I will say that the first lens I bought was a variable ap lens and I often wish I could upgrade. It's not bad all the way down at it's shortest zoom, but when I'm all the way out, I rarely get that nice bokeh.

With that said, it is still my only option for soccer photos, so it is still a go-to lens. I would just hate to have to use it as a portrait lens.

Just my $0.02 worth.

best of luck!
GiGi

I too would pick a prime lens for portraits.

Yea. I am with Beth about variable aps. I have that lens when I bought my 7D, it came with the camera - which I eventually sold.

I would suggest getting a nifty fifty - 50 mm 1.8 - it is really good and cheap. If you have a little extra cash, you can get another lens - 85mm f1.8 or if you want wider 35mm f2 which gives you ample of room to move around as oppose to the 85mm. If you want to get into macro you can opt for 100mm f2.8, this is also good for portraiture only draw back again is you have to step back.. lol

Sorry to hear about your lens! That's a bummer. But an opportunity for new growth! Excited to hear what you choose.

bummer about the lens. I feel your pain.